Report from the Legislature – October 06, 2022

World-class, environmentally sustainable, tasty and nutritious. Those are just some of the ways consumers around the world describe Saskatchewan agriculture products. As we celebrate Agriculture Month in Saskatchewan, we are taking time to thank the dedicated agriculture producers who put that food on our table. In 2021, Saskatchewan set a record with $17.5 billion in agri-food exports, producing 98 per cent of Canada’s lentils and 80 per cent of the national durum crop. Saskatchewan is also one of the largest beef-producing provinces in the country.

This year, Agriculture Month focuses on the connection between the farm and our dinner tables. Partnering with Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan, we are asking families to share their food stories. Gathering around the table for Thanksgiving, meals in the field or even a picnic in the park, share your connection to food on social media using #MealsFromtheFarm.

In appreciation of livestock producers and veterinarians, the first week of October is Animal Health Week in Saskatchewan. Recognizing the high level of care that farm families provide to their animals with the help of vet professionals, this year’s theme is “Habitat Protection and Pandemic Prevention.” Incredibly proud and dedicated to their livestock, Saskatchewan ranchers, producers, and veterinarians work side by side to care for both the animals and the land on which they live.

Over the summer, we were pleased to meet with as many of you as possible while gathering feedback on the needs of the province. Hearing your concerns about a shortage of animal health professionals serving rural Saskatchewan, our government has made two announcements to help address the issue. We have increased the number of subsidized training seats at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine from 20 to 25. Graduates who stay in the province to serve livestock stakeholders in rural and remote areas will qualify for the Saskatchewan Loan Forgiveness for Veterinarians and Veterinary Technologists program. By forgiving up to $20,000 in Saskatchewan Student Loan debt, the program aims to attract more professionals to under-served rural areas.

With the autumn season upon us, flu season isn’t far behind. Saskatchewan residents can now begin booking the annual flu shot through the Saskatchewan Health Authority. Vaccination clinics begin on October 11th, and pharmacies will also be able to administer the dose at that time. Booking online is the most convenient way to get the vaccination, and the process features a new family tool. Visiting 4flu.ca will enable you to book appointments for the entire family in one session. Individual and group bookings can be made by calling 1-833-SASKVAX (1-833-727-5829).

The popularity of camping has increased in recent years, and there has been a desire for more sites to be available outside of the regular campaign season. That passion for the outdoors was evident last October following a record-breaking season. From October through March 15th, select campsites at certain provincial parks will now be available to reserve online. Due to the colder weather, certain services will be reduced and will be noted upon making the reservation. Reduced services will be reflected in a discounted nightly rate. You can learn more about fall and winter camping by visiting parks.saskatchewan.ca.

Outdoor enthusiasts looking to take advantage of the mild fall conditions are reminded that ticks are still active, including the blacklegged tick that can cause Lyme disease. The risk for contracting Lyme disease is low, but not zero so it’s important to exercise the proper precautions when venturing into long grass or brush. Wear light-coloured clothing so the ticks are easy to spot, cover exposed skin with long pants and shirts, wear shoes rather than sandals and pull your socks over your pant legs.

After a summer of being in the community again, meeting face to face with residents and municipal leaders, we have collected the feedback we need to prepare for the Fall Sitting of the Legislature. Our population is higher than ever, we have more jobs than ever before, and our economy is a leader in the nation. We will continue to foster that growth into the future, growth that works for everyone.